Combination skin – how to care for it? What to keep in mind?

Mixed skin is a combination of oily and dry skin. Such a compilation makes it quite problematic to care for. What cosmetics for combination skin to use to enjoy radiant skin? Use our tips!

Combination skin – characteristics

Combination skin is one of the most common skin types, which is a combination of the characteristics of oily and dry skin. Oily and dry skin differ strongly in their requirements and care recommendations – this is why combination skin can cause a lot of problems.

You’ll recognize combination skin by dry cheeks and temples and an oily T-zone (forehead, nose and chin), where blackheads, enlarged pores and other imperfections can also appear.

Mixed skin is also characterized by:

• Acne prone – usually in the T-zone.
• Flaking of the epidermis – primarily on the cheeks.
• A tendency to irritation, burning and itching – especially in areas where the skin is dry.
• Sensation of astringency of the face – you may notice it especially after washing. It mainly affects the cheeks.

The direct cause of combination skin is the abnormal production of sebum. There is too much of it in the T-zone, while in other areas there is too little. This condition is influenced by both internal and external factors.

Factors that exacerbate problems with combination skin:

• Inadequate diet – a menu rich in sugar, salt and processed foods is not conducive to good skin condition. Dietary mistakes are particularly hard on oily and combination skin, as they can exacerbate the tendency to excessive sebum production and the formation of blackheads.
• Improper hydration – not only diet, but also drinking too little water affects the skin and makes it dehydrated and dry – and this is one of the symptoms of combination skin.
• Hormonal changes – problems with sebum production often occur during puberty, menopause or pregnancy. Mixed skin is also not served by hormonal disorders, as well as taking certain hormonal medications.
• Stress – is another factor that has a negative impact not only on health, but also on the skin.
• Skin care mistakes – combination skin is very demanding and difficult to care for. The T-zone is oily and prone to acne. Cheeks and temples are sometimes dry and dehydrated. The very choice of facial cleansers or cream can cause problems. A common mistake is to use cosmetics for oily skin when you have combination skin – applying them to dry areas of the skin will only exacerbate the problem.

Proper care for combination skin

Wondering what cosmetics for combination skin to choose? Having such skin, is it possible to reconcile its different needs? Yes! First of all, take care of its hydration. Apply cosmetics with such properties to all areas of the face – they are indispensable where there is dryness; and in the T-zone they can reduce seborrhea. Also, remember to treat your skin gently: don’t wash your face with sharp sponges and don’t use strong exfoliating cleansers.

Tonic for combination skin

After removing makeup and cleansing your skin – for example, using a mild gel – apply a toner to your skin. Do not skip this cosmetic! It is especially desirable in the care of combination skin, as it promotes the restoration of the correct pH of the skin. You can opt for a classic tonic or choose a plant-based hydrolate.

Cream for combination skin

To moisturize your skin, apply a cream for combination skin. When buying such a cosmetic, pay attention to whether there are moisturizing components in its composition – such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera. Cream for combination skin should also regulate sebum production. If the tested cosmetics do not meet your expectations, consider using two creams: for the T-zone you can use a cream dedicated to oily skin, and on the cheeks and temples apply a highly moisturizing cosmetic.

Foundation for combination skin

A woman’s makeup bag should also include a suitable foundation for combination skin. A good product of this type will work in multiple ways and will combine various properties: moisturizing, mattifying, promoting adequate sebum production and reducing any imperfections.

With combination skin, it is worth trying mineral cosmetics – especially those with a powdered formula. They are applied with a brush (dry or after wetting). Loose mineral foundation does not clog pores, provides a matte finish, but without emphasizing dry skins.